As America continues to fight the Global War on Terror, the Department of Homeland Security has taken on a much more important role in our nation’s safety. The Department of Homeland Security offers individuals who are interested in serving their country the opportunity to do so through many exciting and challenging careers. All of the careers with the Department of Homeland Security vary in terms of education level and compensation.
Border Patrol Agent
One of the most popular Homeland Security jobs is that of a border patrol agent. A border patrol agent essentially protects the borders of America, either through physical surveillance, or through the use of computers and cyber security. A border patrol agent is often the first line of defense against terrorists who are trying to enter the country, or against those who are trying to bring terrorist weapons across the border. A border patrol agent’s job is not limited to any one border in particular. Border patrol agents work on all points of entry into the United States, and are tasked with enforcing not only United States law, but also international laws.
United States border patrol agents are also tasked with monitoring and deterring the smuggling of illegal aliens into the country. Education requirements for border patrol agents are at least a high school diploma and applicants can expect to earn between $38,600 to $49,000. Additionally, there are uniform allowances, as well as benefits based on location.
Cyber Security Agent
Another favorite among Homeland Security careers is that of cyber security agent. Cyber security agents working for the Department of Homeland Security are tasked with the job of identifying terrorist threats to the United States’ national interests, both at home, and abroad. Cyber security agents monitor Internet traffic and posts, and assist in neutralizing terrorist activity. A cyber security agent often works with a computer and should be well versed in the latest technology. This job requires applicants to not only know and understand Federal and international laws in regard to physical security, but to also keep up to date with the ever changing laws regarding cyber security.
As the Internet has changed the way the world interacts, cyber security agents must keep up to date with the ever changing landscape of online threats to America. The ultimate goal of a cyber security agent within the Department of Homeland Security is to protect the infrastructure of America, deter foreign terrorists, and neutralize enemies of the state. Often times, Homeland Security jobs in cyber security will require advanced and specialized degrees in information technology. A high school diploma is the minimum accepted education level based on experience or other outside education. Cyber security agents working within the Department of Homeland Security can expect to earn anywhere from $74,000 to $175,000, based on education and experience.
Counter Terrorism Agent
A counter terrorism agent essentially works to make sure that America remains safe from terrorism through aviation security, maintaining chemical security, as well as fraud and counterfeit security. Counter terrorism agents within the Department of Homeland Security are tasked with fighting enemies of the state through means of abstract concepts, as well as physical concepts. Counter terrorism agents integrate and work closely with all branches of the Department of Homeland Security. Counter terrorism agents also provide law enforcement services, as well as identification services, when engaged in legal issues.
A counter terrorism agent, like a border patrol agent, is often the first line of defense against terrorists or terrorist agents who wish to do harm to America, either through physical acts, or through infrastructure attacks, including acts that would damage America’s credit and financial networks. Counter terrorism agents often require at least a high school diploma, but a higher degree such as a Bachelors from an accredited school is preferred. Counter terrorism agents can expect to earn between $60,000 to $150,000 a year, again, based on experience and education.
The United States continues to battle foreign terrorists and the Department of Homeland Security is at the forefront of this fight. Terrorists who wish to do harm to the United States continue to evolve in their tactics and it is very important that the Department of Homeland Security employs competent men and women to combat this growing threat. A sound education is the first step to obtaining a rewarding career working with the Department of Homeland Security. No matter what career path one follows within the Department, it is imperative that they have the ideals of America at the forefront of the mind.